By Isaac Mission
Newcastle United’s summer overhaul has brought major changes to the club, but Joe Willock is quickly becoming one of the players benefiting most from the new era at St. James’ Park.
The Magpies endured a turbulent end to last season, followed by the departures of Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and long-serving manager Eddie Howe. With so much experience leaving, concerns grew over how Newcastle would cope heading into the 2026/27 campaign.
However, new head coach Mathias Jaissle has moved quickly to establish his philosophy and restore a sense of togetherness within the squad.
Several players who struggled last season have already shown signs of improvement. Anthony Elanga, Harvey Barnes and Yoane Wissa have all enjoyed encouraging starts, while Joelinton remains sidelined with a thigh injury.
Joelinton’s Role Under Threat
Joelinton has developed into a popular figure on Tyneside after transforming his Newcastle career.
Initially signed as a club-record striker, the Brazilian struggled in front of goal before eventually being converted into a powerful, energetic midfielder under Steve Bruce and later Howe.
At 30, however, Joelinton now faces increased competition for his place. With Guimaraes and Tonali gone, he could have expected to become a central figure in the revamped midfield, but Newcastle now have several alternatives.
Nico Gonzalez, Sean Steur and Lewis Miley are among the players competing for midfield opportunities, while £35m arrival Aladji Bamba is another option waiting for his chance.
Willock could be the most intriguing alternative.
Willock Thriving Under Jaissle
The £25m signing from Arsenal appeared to be heading towards an uncertain future at Newcastle before Jaissle reportedly played an important role in convincing him to remain at the club.
Interest from abroad existed during the summer, but the new manager reportedly valued Willock’s versatility and ability to operate in different midfield roles while also making an impact further forward.
The 27-year-old has made a promising start to the Premier League season, scoring once while completing 96% of his passes and 67% of his attempted dribbles across his opening three appearances.
His ability to cover ground, carry the ball and contribute offensively makes him particularly suited to Jaissle’s energetic approach.
Willock’s Career Record by Position
| Position | Appearances | Goals + Assists |
|---|---|---|
| Central midfield | 193 | 26 + 20 |
| Attacking midfield | 50 | 9 + 3 |
| Right midfield | 17 | 5 + 4 |
| Defensive midfield | 11 | 3 + 1 |
| Left midfield | 5 | 2 + 0 |
Willock’s versatility is nothing new. During his Newcastle career, he has been deployed in several midfield positions, while his early loan spell at the club produced a remarkable scoring streak in which he found the net seven times in seven matches.
Jaissle Sees Something in Willock
The midfielder’s recent performances have also attracted praise.
Former Newcastle defender John Anderson highlighted Willock’s work rate during the Carabao Cup victory over Millwall, while suggesting that Jaissle’s faith in the player is already producing results.
Technically gifted and capable of playing with intensity, Willock possesses several qualities that could make him an important part of the manager’s plans.
In some ways, his role could eventually mirror the one Joelinton occupied under Howe. Rather than being defined by one position, the player can provide physicality, movement and attacking contributions alongside more technical midfielders.
That could become particularly significant if Joelinton struggles to regain his previous influence after returning from injury.
Willock’s current contract is entering its final year, meaning his performances could have major implications for his future.
If he continues developing under Jaissle and maintains his strong early-season form, Newcastle’s hierarchy may soon have a decision to make over a new deal.
For now, though, Willock is making the most of his opportunity—and if he continues on this trajectory, Newcastle’s emerging version of Joelinton could eventually challenge the original for a place at the heart of the midfield.
